[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 87 (Tuesday, June 22, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1209]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNITION OF MICHAEL J. ATTARDI IN APPRECIATION FOR A LIFETIME OF 
       DEDICATION AND FRIENDSHIP TO THE COMMUNITY OF LONG BRANCH

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                        HON. FRANK PALLONE, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 22, 2004

  Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the late 
Michael J. Attardi, a dear friend to the sixth district of New Jersey. 
Mr. Attardi, a resident of Long Branch, was a well-known figure 
throughout his community. He will be sorely missed by family, friends, 
and neighbors.
  Michael Attardi was a truly remarkable neighbor for Long Branch. 
While he was born in Neptune, he lived within the neighborhood of Long 
Branch for the past sixty-eight years. Throughout his lifetime, Mr. 
Attardi was well regarded for his prowess on the football field. His 
greatest high school success was to lead the ``Green Wave'' of Long 
Branch High School to a state football championship. Known as ``Iron 
Mike'' to his close friends and family, Mr. Attardi was named to the 
first team All-State and All-County football teams quite an honor for 
any athlete.
  Not only was Mr. Attardi triumphant on the field during high school, 
he also was a star football player at the Valley Forge Military 
Academy. His attendance at this academy allowed him to be named to the 
All-American Football team in 1954. After years had passed, the City of 
Long Branch and the State of New Jersey honored Mr. Attardi by electing 
him to the Long Branch Athletic Hall of Fame for his star abilities on 
the football field.
  Aside from being an accomplished athlete, Mr. Attardi honorably 
served his country in the United States Army. He was well decorated in 
his eight years of service and received four medals as a Military 
Police officer. Perhaps his greatest accomplishments were his family, 
his marriage of forty-five years to Frances Tortoretti, their three 
children, and two grandchildren.
  Mr. Speaker, once again, I am proud to acknowledge a truly great man 
for his dedication to family, community, and country. I ask that my 
colleagues join me in extending our sincerest condolences to the family 
of Mr. Michael J. Attardi. He will sorely be missed by everyone whose 
lives he touched.

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